For those of you who don't know of Bob Harper, spend some time learning a little history of the sign business. You'll find his name mentioned among the greats. For those who DO know him, the following is an excerpt from a letter I just got yesterday. His vision has worsened and there is no hope for any recovery from the macular degeneration of the eyes that he suffers from. Read for yourself:
"Hope you can read this, I am using a 6" magnifying glass mounted on a table. I have a small vision of light still in my eyes - but it is very blurry.
Went to Kansas City to the University of Missouri to the eye division. The doctor specialized in macular degeneration of the eye. I had many tests - there is no cure. It's a slow progressive loss of vision. No hope.
The check you sent was most appreciated and very thoughtful. I've wrote to those who were so concerned. Money is great - but if you can't see to spend it, it has not much meaning.
If you have time, please write. It's lonely here in this semi-dark house. ------ Bob
I don't know about you folks - but that broke my heart. To know that a person who has brought so much enjoyment to the visual arts is losing what is his greatest treasure - his vision - just kills me.
Won't you pleae write to Bob if you know of him - or even if you don't? Let him know that there is an industry full of folks who appreciate how much impact his contributions to our craft have had. If you can write to him, talk about something funny - give him a hard time - or just shoot the bull. If you want to call and do the same, his number is 417-357-8149. If you want to write, his address is 'Bob Harper - P.O. Box 302 - Galena, MO - 65656.
Bob really doesn't have tons of family to depend on - so this would likely mean a lot to him. Email is great - but it's the old "hand-lettering" that will only work on this job. Let's spread a little of the goodness that is so prevalent amongst us here ( most of the time!! )
Remember, value what you have today - for it may not be with you tomorrow. Thanks.
-------------------- Jay Allen ShawCraft Sign Co. Machesney Park, IL jallen222@aol.com http://www.shawcraft.com/
"The object of the superior man is truth." -Confucius
Posts: 1285 | From: Machesney Park, IL, USA | Registered: Nov 1998
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It's not what I wanted to hear, but since it is happening, I am glad you let us know about it. I met Bob at Mark Fair's meet a couple of years ago. Not only is he extremely talented, but he is one of the nicest people you will ever meet.
I better get off this computer. I think I need the phone line for something more important.
Thanks for the number
-------------------- Don Hulsey Strokes by DON signs Utica, KY 270-275-9552 sbdsigns@aol.com
I've always been crazy... but it's kept me from going insane.
Posts: 2316 | From: Utica, KY U.S.A. | Registered: Jan 1999
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posted
Thanks for the info...Bob worked for the same shop I did back in 1964 we have reaquainted ourselves several times over the years and I've spent time with him at several meets he's been to my shop and even signed his name with the by-line "For the good times" on by paint kart.
He has always been informative, friendly and is he ever talented! (his layouts are amazing)
I hate to hear of his misfortune and be rest assured I'll be talking to him before the week is out!
We have many friends in common and I will be contacting them so they too can pass on some good feelings.
-------------------- "Werks fer me...it'll werk fer you"
Monte Jumper SIGNLanguage/Norman.Okla. jumpers@itlnet.net
posted
Just recently I talked to Bob on the phone and he is really having a tough time dealing with his failing eyesight. For someone who has spent a lifetime working with visual images it is heart rendering to have to give up those images.
Bob loves to talk. Please give him a call, even if you don't know him. In just a few minutes you will have an old friend.
Bob is 81 now and has left for us a wealth of great designs. He provided me with many a good layout for showcards. I believe it is called "copying".
-------------------- Chapman Sign Studio Temple, Texas chapmanstudio@sbcglobal.net
Posts: 6306 | From: Temple, Texas, USA | Registered: Nov 1998
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posted
That's got to be the suckiest thing that ever sucked. Thanks for spreading the word Jay.
I've never met Bob Harper, but I sure know that name. I will be happy to drop a note to him. Does anyone know if there is a compilation of his work in print?
posted
jay, thanks for calling attention to mr. harper's situation. i was fortunate to have bob attend my meet in december 1999, what a thrill for someone like me who grew up with bob's card work to inspire and to finally meet a letterhead hero.
bob's tele number is written on my easel and i will call him this week.
i tell everyone it was like meeting one of the beatles.
i am gonna send bob a care package for christmas.
a bob fan,
mark
(by the way, if you folks will furnish me with the images, i will donate server space for a website for Bob Harper.)
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